SHS Clawhttps://shsclaw.sprise.com
The student news site of Souhegan High SchoolMon, 19 Mar 2018 02:18:43 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.4Interview with Congressional Candidate Dr. Levensonhttps://shsclaw.sprise.com/5869/showcase/interview-with-congressional-candidate-dr-levenson/
https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5869/showcase/interview-with-congressional-candidate-dr-levenson/#respondMon, 19 Mar 2018 02:18:43 +0000https://shsclaw.sprise.com/?p=5869If you google Dr. Stewart Levenson, one of the first things you will learn about the congressional candidate is that he is a whistleblower. Last July, Levenson decided to come forward and leak information about the bad treatment of veterans and the Manchester VA. According to Levinson the problem was “a few shortcomings to the care that the veterans were receiving … some [weren’t] receiving the care they deserve” and the VA “overspent the budget so they were sending patients out for the cheapest care possible.” After noticing this problem, Levenson failed to receive help from his superiors and politicians, so he took matters into his own hands and went to the Boston Globe. When we asked him what was running through his mind making that decision he told us, “ To me, there was no decision. I had to do what I did.”

Now, Levenson is amidst a campaign for a seat in Congress. He had never planned on running for Congress, he actually had plans to retire in the next few years. However, when he saw that the government was broken he decided that he should do something about it. In his own words, he is running because “Congress needs a doctor”. Levenson thinks that career politicians are the problem. They “hate the other party more than they love their country and are so concerned with making the other guy look bad that they don’t solve problems” As a doctor, Levenson takes his oath to take care of patients very seriously and he intends to keep that oath as a Congressman, with the government as his patient.

Dr. Levenson also spoke on the prospect of a wall across the southern border of the U.S., “the southern wall, I think it’s essential.” He expanded on this statement of this need for a southern wall, “there are tunnels going under our southern border”. Dr. Levenson believes in dealing with securing our borders because “if you don’t have secure borders then you’re going to be dealing with a whole new run of people.” Rather than focusing on the people in America and “whether these people should be allowed to stay”, his focus is towards stopping what he believes is a hole in our secure borders. Another topic which Dr. Levenson responded to is the very prevalent issue of gun control.

Dr. Levenson stated his views on gun control in America, one of the most controversial topics today, and specifically gun control after the tragedy of the Florida shooting. Dr. Levenson said how this was “a horrible tragedy”, but that “passing another gun law is not going to solve anything.” Dr. Levenson stated his belief that the laws are up to par, “the laws are already on the books, and the judgement that is already set up in terms of our policing agencies was there, but it fell short.” This failure of the laws in place, he believes, was because “the FBI didn’t do their job” as the shooter was reported to the FBI. Dr. Levenson reiterated multiple times that it is not new gun laws which will have an impact on preventing these shootings, but enforcing the current laws because “it is the job of the government to enforce the laws it has to prevent these nut jobs from a getting the gun.”

Another important issue to Dr. Levenson is the opioid epidemic. It’s no secret that one of the biggest problems facing New Hampshire is the opioid addiction. In just five years the number of opioid-related deaths increased by a staggering 1,629%. Levenson thinks that the solution is a two-part solution. First, we should be offering treatment to addicts, “the criminal justice system should not be utilized for users, but for dealers”. The second part would be interdiction to make sure that opioids don’t enter our borders easily, saying “We can’t have the supply being so prevalent that it’s so easy for people to become addicted and stay addicted.”

Dr. Levenson ended the interview with some wisdom he has learned over the years. He spoke to the Claw reporters saying to “follow your passion.” Dr. Levenson also told a story of a question he was asked while attempting to receive an endorsement. Dr. Levenson spoke on how he was asked, “What advice would you give to my son?” His response was to “find something you enjoy and work really hard at it because success is always 90% hard work.” Dr. Levenson elaborated, “you can always find somebody who’s smarter than you, but you can always even the playing field by working harder.” Dr. Levenson concluded this short with a connection to his campaign as she stated, “And that’s what I’m hoping to do now.”

The SHS Claw would like to thank Dr. Levenson and his team for the wonderful opportunity we had in interviewing him and the time they dedicated to make this happen.

]]>https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5869/showcase/interview-with-congressional-candidate-dr-levenson/feed/0Girls Indoor Track Takes First Place; Second Year in a Rowhttps://shsclaw.sprise.com/5852/sports/girls-indoor-track-takes-first-place-second-year-in-a-row/
https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5852/sports/girls-indoor-track-takes-first-place-second-year-in-a-row/#respondMon, 05 Mar 2018 19:23:02 +0000https://shsclaw.sprise.com/?p=5852The Indoor Track Division II State meet took place Sunday, February 4th at Dartmouth College. Throughout the day the teams jockied for points. By the 4×200 it came down to Souhegan Sabers Vs Milford Titans.

Early on SHS runners placed highly both in relays and individual events. In the 4×800 Seniors Jane Leighton, Elise lambert, and Sophomores Marissa Romano and Mackenzie Hayzen took first with a time of 9:56.82, finishing with a sizable lead on second place.

Individually, Lambert took Second with a time of 1:38.95 losing by .31 seconds to Julia Robitaille from Manchester West. Lambert also placed third in High Jump, clearing 4’10’’.

Jane Leighton and Marissa Romano took second and third in the 1000 meter race. Leighton ran 3:04.15 and Romano a 3:08.46.

From the sprinters, Sinor Abby Cranney placed second in the 300 with a time of 42.85. Hannah Rowe placed fourth in Long Jump jumping 16’3’’.

Coming into the final event of the day, the 4×200 was between Milford and Souhegan. Milford was ahead by only a few points if the SHS 200 relay team couldn’t pull off a win, states would be lost.

In an exciting race, Cranney crossed the finish line 2.70 seconds ahead of Mlfords time running a winning time of 1:51.70. Congratulations Souhegan Sabers!!

In a world where technology is the new frontier, high school students must learn to adapt to the changing world around them. With college and careers in the near future, it is crucial to familiarize them with the companies and technological advances in their future job options. The math coaches at Souhegan High School created a project to bring together a major corporation, Brookstone, and the students enrolled in Math 3 courses. Students under the guidance of Brookstone professional designers and their teachers were able to create their own 3D models using a professional online design program.

The project was introduced by Stephen Mills the OVP at Brookstone Labs, Rob Mcculloch the Industrial Design Manager and Spencer Trafton the Senior Industrial Designer. They have all been working with Brookstone for many years and are well versed in the world of industrial design. This project required students to draft sketches drawn to scale, calculate the appropriate measurements to accurately print a 3D shape and actually design their own ornament. The ornaments with the best design were selected to actually be 3D printed.

Amy Provencal-McGuigan is the Instructional Math Coach at Souhegan High School. “For the last two summers, SHS has run a STEAM institute for science, engineering, math, tech and art teachers of Souhegan. The institute focuses on Big Data, Design, Robotics, and Tech that support the implementation of a solid STEAM program for all students. This 3D design project was one of the results of that institute,” said Provencal-McGuigan.

“

Two of the men who presented had majored in Art. I heard an AP Calc student leave the theatre saying to another, ‘I think I need to take an art course next year!'””

— Amy Provencal-McGuigan

Regarding the project, Provencal-McGuigan later went on to say, “The emphasis is on the word ALL in ‘all students’. It is important to us to have our math students use this technology in their regular math class, not just a few students exposed to this work in elective courses. The Brookstone folks shared with our kids that jobs in product design are in demand. Our curriculum in Core 3 which now starts the beginnings of calculus and rotational geometry was the perfect place to allow the majority of juniors and many sophomores to experience this type of work. I applauded the speakers for unintentionally discussing how much collaboration they do, the amount of trial and error while problem-solving and the knowledge they gain from making mistakes. These are habits we try to instill in all of our math students. Two of the men who presented had majored in Art. I heard an AP Calc student leave the theatre saying to another, ‘I think I need to take an art course next year!'”

Having the ability to use advanced technology in a cutting-edge way as high school students exposes them to not only more STEAM but also the Arts. Those two fields, although unlikely companions, come hand in hand with many of the modern world jobs and college courses students will experience in the future. This 3D design project is an outstanding example of how Souhegan High School looks to give their students the best possible teachings and experiences to prepare them for the real world.

During the third weekend in January, Souhegan teacher Kathy Maddock participated in the Masters World Cup in Minneapolis, Minnesota where she took gold in her age group for the 15-kilometer freestyle. The Masters World Cup is an international cross-country ski race for skiers 30 years and older. Every year the competition is held in a different location and skiers from around the world take part.

Maddock competed in two races, the 15-kilometer classic, and the 15-kilometer freestyle. She placed 3rd in her age group in the 15 kilometer classic, and 1st in her age group in the 15-kilometer freestyle. “I had a friend and fellow coach who was giving me splits throughout the race. About a half a kilometer from the finish he told me that I had a lead of over a minute, and he said, ‘You’ve got a huge lead; just ski it in and enjoy it!’ So I decided to let up a little bit and look around and savor the moment as I skied into the finish. That was really fun,” said Maddock.

Maddock has been skiing for 40 years. It’s a passion and a pastime that she has carried with her for the majority of her life. She coached Souhegan’s Nordic Ski Team for 19 years. This year is the first year that she hasn’t coached the Nordic team since she started teaching at Souhegan. Instead, she is coaching a cross-country ski club in Dublin, New Hampshire that she helped start two years ago.

Coaching allows Kathy to train in the winter and share her expertise with less experienced skiers. The club, Dublin XC, trains 6 days a week for 1 to 3 hours a day. When the snow melts away, Kathy continues to train by roller skiing and running on both flat and mountain trails.

It takes real dedication to stick with something for 40 years, but Maddock says that it’s “good to do and practice a sport that you can do your whole life,” and that’s exactly what she intends to do.

It took 15 seasons, 26,395 points, 35,714 minutes played, an NBA Championship, finals MVP, 10 all-star nods, and 11 stab wounds for Paul Pierce’s number 34 to be hung in the rafters along with the other Celtic greats.

“The Truth” as many people called him; Paul Pierce defined the organization and will forever be known as one of the greatest Celtics of all time. Drafted in 1998, Pierce slid down the draft board until the Celtics took him with the 10th pick. His rookie season, Pierce emerged as a star and helped the Celtics come back onto the map after multiple losing seasons. As his career progressed, he earned the nickname “Truth” from Lakers big man Shaquille O’ Neal. Soon after, he became the captain of the Boston Celtics

Pierce, (#34) guards Oklahoma City’s forward Kevin Durant (35)

For 10 years, Pierce would remain the captain of the Celtics as he remained the only true all-star on the Celtics at that time. However, Pierce continued to stay loyal to the team that drafted him and he was rewarded in the summer of 2007 when the Minnesota Timberwolves traded 10 time all-star Kevin Garnett to the Celtics in exchange for five players including: Al Jefferson, a draft pick and cash considerations. Along with Garnett, the Celtics also received Ray Allen from the Supersonics and formed a big three. They went on to beat their arch rival in the NBA finals the Los Angeles Lakers and claim the franchises’ 17th championship.

Pierce was more than just a basketball player in the eyes of many due to the amount of work he did in the streets of Boston during his time as a Celtic. Pierce founded “The Truth Fund” to help get education to young people who may not be able to get it otherwise. Along with his foundation, Pierce was recognized for his actions league wide and performed in a school play every year for kids who made perfect attendance at the end of the year. Down the later years of Pierce’s career, it was clear that he and the Celtics were heading different ways as the Celtics started to build for the future. He and Garnett were eventually traded to the Brooklyn Nets however most people remember him for what he did in Boston.

Paul Pierce embodied what it meant to be a Celtic and what it means to play in Boston. His hard work and dedication to the city got his number 34 hung up with the other Celtic legends ensuring that no player will ever wear the number 34 for the Celtics again.

]]>https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5800/sports/34-in-the-rafters/feed/0Quite the Look!https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5774/all/fashion/quite-the-look/
https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5774/all/fashion/quite-the-look/#respondFri, 16 Feb 2018 13:26:08 +0000https://shsclaw.sprise.com/?p=5774Here are some tips to get the look you want for Fang Fest.

]]>https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5774/all/fashion/quite-the-look/feed/0Runner’s Alley; Your Local Running Hubhttps://shsclaw.sprise.com/5789/sports/runners-alley-your-local-running-hub/
https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5789/sports/runners-alley-your-local-running-hub/#respondWed, 14 Feb 2018 19:26:00 +0000https://shsclaw.sprise.com/?p=5789Opened for business in June of 1997, Runner’s Alley was founded to support and encourage outdoor activities by supplying the gear people need and today it has grown to do this and more.

Originally attending college for Hospital Administration and Planning, the founder Jeanine Sylvester, quickly realized that a desk job wasn’t for her. After buying running shoes without assistance for years, all it took was a visit to a unique running store in Denver to light the spark that has become Runner’s Alley.

With three store locations located in Portsmouth, Concord and Manchester you can always stop in to find cheerful employees dedicated to helping you with whatever you need. They have a sizable collection of shoes that will accommodate for the needs of all walkers, joggers and racers alike. With many name brands you’ll be sure to find something for you. Although their shoes are a big part of their business, it does not nearly encompass all the services they provide. They have a wide selection of clothing, hydration, nutrition and specialized products such as rollers and Garmins. Basically they have everything you’ll need to reach your running goals.

So what makes Runner’s Alley so unique?“number one is our staff, said Jeanine Sylvester,which in turn brings us great customers. We love creating an experience for each of our customers and find great satisfaction in providing solutions to all their running needs.”

When you walk into a Runner’s Alley store you’re met with a warm easy going atmosphere. Employees don’t try to sell you anything until they have analyzed your stride. Instead, they bring the best options from many different shoe brands to see which feels best for you.

Not only does the customer service exceed expectations, but Runner’s Alley has an outstanding track record with the local running community. They host weekly running groups throughout the year and sponsor road races throughout the state.

Additionally, Runner’s Alley offers classes that are designed to better preserve and enhance the physical health of inexperienced and experienced runners alike. Runner’s Alley works year round to partner with local businesses as a way to reach out to the community and help get people outdoors.

If you’re looking to get into running or already are, Runner’s Alley is the perfect place to get the gear you need to perform your best!

]]>https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5789/sports/runners-alley-your-local-running-hub/feed/0From a Senior to a Freshman: Fang Festhttps://shsclaw.sprise.com/5785/showcase/from-a-senior-to-a-freshman-fang-fest/
https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5785/showcase/from-a-senior-to-a-freshman-fang-fest/#respondTue, 13 Feb 2018 21:54:41 +0000https://shsclaw.sprise.com/?p=5785Dear Freshmen, It’s February, and in case you haven’t heard, February means one thing at Souhegan: Fang Fest, Souhegan’s version of spirit week. However, it is much more than your average spirit week. There are contests to win, costumes to create, hallways to decorate, dances to choreograph, and much more. As you prepare for your first Fang Fest, there’s a lot of questions that come up. So without further ado, here are a few things you need to know: First, everyone dresses up. I’m sure you have heard that before, but you should know that “dressing up” for Fang Fest is more than just wearing a green t-shirt. I still remember my freshman year walking into the first day of Fang Fest, wearing a green shirt, green socks, and a green tutu, and thinking that I was too dressed up. Yet, as soon as I stepped foot in Souhegan I realized there was no such thing. If you think that you are too dressed up for Fang Fest, I promise you aren’t. The more spirit you have, the better the week will be. Second, you need to know if the best places to buy your outfits. Nobody wants a bad outfit, but as high school students, most of us don’t have an unlimited cash supply to spend on 80s workout clothes and colored tights. Fortunately, there are a few tips to help save some money. Party City is a Fang Fest must. With their color-sorted accessories, it is easy to find the perfect things. Not to mention the rest of the store is filled with stuff for the other theme days. Another way to save money during Fang Fest is to visit thrift stores. Places like Goodwill and Mother & Child have tons of possible outfits for only a few bucks. Finally, if you want some free stuff borrowing things from upperclassmen. Everyone else was a freshman once, and I’m sure many of your upperclassmen friends still have their green bandanas or tights tucked away in the back of their closets. Third, get involved. I know that everybody says that, but it’s because it’s true. Fang Fest gives everyone the chance to do something. My personal favorite is the hallways. Hallways start Thursday after school and they bring the whole grade together to work on one thing. Everyone who shows up has something to do, whether it be taping balloons to the wall, painting a poster, or building some sort of structure for the entrance of the hallway. However, if that doesn’t sound like you there are plenty of other options. You could participate in the dance, or the mural contest, or one of the afterschool contest. Whatever you decide to do, you’ll have a blast doing it and earn more Fang Fest points for your grade! Finally, enjoy every minute of it. I know this is cliche, but the four years of high school fly by. I remember my first Fang Fest and it feels like it yesterday, nevermind three years ago. So during Fang Fest, take it all in. Have fun with your costumes, take tons of pictures, do as much as you can, and enjoy your grade coming together. Fang Fest is a great time at Souhegan, but it goes by fast. So enjoy every minute of it, because before you know it you’ll be a senior and you’ll only have one more left. Sincerely, A Senior
]]>https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5785/showcase/from-a-senior-to-a-freshman-fang-fest/feed/0Hope(y)s and Dreams Achievedhttps://shsclaw.sprise.com/5782/sports/hopeys-and-dreams-achieved/
https://shsclaw.sprise.com/5782/sports/hopeys-and-dreams-achieved/#respondFri, 09 Feb 2018 19:00:08 +0000https://shsclaw.sprise.com/?p=5782Ethan Hopey is a senior at Souhegan High School and committed to play Division III men’s lacrosse at Nichols College (https://www.nichols.edu/) , founded in 1815 in Dudley, Massachusetts.

Hopey has dreams of majoring in business and then going to a highly competitive school to get his PhD. Although he had many other options of colleges to choose from, Hopey chose Nichols with the help of his parents, who he said have supported him through the whole process.

Hopey’s primary position is attack and he has been playing since the ripe age of 5. Many of his teammates refer to him as, “a great kid,” and as, “someone you can look up to.” Hopey explained that he has always set high expectations for himself and expects to continue doing that through his college career and afterwords.

Hopey speaks highly of Souhegan’s Lacrosse program, saying it is, “a great place for people to get together and have fun and be part of a family more than a team.” He’s been on varsity since freshman year and is hoping to be a captain this year.